The removal of radioactive material from the former Christie Miller site has started as part of preparations for its redevelopment.
Remediation works started on Monday 3rd August and are expected to take around three weeks. The work follows the discovery earlier this year of radioactive contamination linked to the site’s former use as RAF Melksham.
The former Christie Miller sports centre, on the old RAF base at Bowerhill, is being prepared for a new Wiltshire Council depot, subject to planning permission.
Ground testing and the removal of contaminated material is being carried out by specialist contractors, with all waste disposed of in accordance with strict environmental regulations.
Perimeter fencing has remained in place since September 2025 and there continues to be no public access to the site.
The contamination was identified during environmental surveys carried out ahead of the proposed redevelopment. Wiltshire Council previously said contractors detected radiation levels “slightly higher than the normal background dose rates expected in the UK” but insisted there was “no elevated risk to the general public” provided the land was not disturbed.
Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways, Cllr Martin Smith, said, “The remediation works are an important part of our plans for the site and will help to inform any future planning application.
“The levels of radiation detected on site are low and are around 30 times lower than someone would receive from a dental X-ray.
“These works will ensure we fully understand the ground conditions and ensure any potential risks are properly managed before any construction activity takes place.”
He added, “A key priority in our Council Plan is to enhance and protect our environment for future generations. The proposed development will house a consolidated depot, fit for purpose for the next 30 years, with an improved Household Recycling Centre and reuse shop.
“Removing the contaminated materials is a necessary step towards submitting a planning application and helping to deliver improved recycling and reuse facilities for local residents.”
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